Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, announced on Tuesday that commercial motorcycles, known as Okada, and tricycles, referred to as Keke Napep, are permanently banned from operating within the Abuja city center. The Minister stated that these modes of transport have evolved into a significant security risk for residents.
During a media briefing, Wike revealed that he recently approved measures following a security council meeting. He noted that while these vehicles contribute to public disorder, the primary motivation for the restriction is the threat they pose to safety. Authorities have been directed to identify specific zones where these vehicles are restricted, though a total ban across the entire territory remains challenging.
Additionally, Wike addressed the presence of beggars and destitutes in the capital. He argued that his administration lacks the capacity to house them and expressed concern that providing such support would act as a magnet for individuals from neighboring states like Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Kaduna. He emphasized that the government cannot sustain the logistics required to manage or accommodate this population.
